2005 Clos Puy Arnaud

From his 30-acre estate on the high limestone plateau of the Côtes de Castillon, conscientious and meticulous proprietor Thierry Valette has produced a blend of 65% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Dense ruby/purple, with a slightly evolved nose of cedar wood, forest floor and herbs as well as loads of blackberry and licorice-infused fruit, this 2005 is medium to full-bodied, powerful, and rich, but the nose showed just a tiny trace of oxidation. Drink this big wine over the next 5-6 years.

Good ruby-red. Ripe aromas of black cherry, raspberry and licorice, lifted by a note of violet. Juicy and bright, with lovely cut to the black fruit and violet flavors. Finishes with firm but fine tannins. Offers unusual purity and finesse for a Cotes de Castillon wine.

From his 30-acre estate on the high limestone plateau of the Côtes de Castillon, conscientious and meticulous proprietor Thierry Valette has produced a blend of 65% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Dense ruby/purple, with a slightly evolved nose of cedar wood, forest floor and herbs as well as loads of blackberry and licorice-infused fruit, this 2005 is medium to full-bodied, powerful, and rich, but the nose showed just a tiny trace of oxidation. Drink this big wine over the next 5-6 years.| eRobertParker.com.June, 2015